Sunday, February 2, 2020

Count Curt von Stedingk

Hmmm. 5th Great Uncle James Culbreath had an extensive Revolutionary War career including the Siege of Savannah. In researching that I came across what I assume to be the only Swedish military officer fighting on the American side at said battle, Count Curt von Stedingk. From Wikipedia on the battle:
The second assault column was commanded by the Swedish Count Curt von Stedingk, who managed to reach the last trench. He later wrote in his journal, "I had the pleasure of planting the American flag on the last trench, but the enemy renewed its attack and our people were annihilated by cross-fire".[8] He was forced back by overwhelming numbers of British troops, left with some 20 men—all were wounded, including von Stedingk. He later wrote, "The moment of retreat with the cries of our dying comrades piercing my heart was the bitterest of my life".
The things you learn.

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